The United Arab Emirates (UAE), with its vibrant cities, high economic potential and luxurious lifestyle, remains one of the most visited countries worldwide. Renewing a visit visa is necessary for many people whose short visits turn into longer stays. Understanding how to renew a visit visa is important for maintaining your legal status and avoiding penalties, whether you are in the UAE to do some job searching, for vacation, or for family time.
Understanding the Visit Visa Types Available in the UAE
In the UAE, visit visas are usually issued for 30, 60 or 90 days and can be extended for another 30 days. Travel agencies, hotels or family members can sponsor the visas. They can also be applied for via the UAE government platforms. Visa-on-arrival is also available for certain nationalities in the UAE. These visas are valid for 30 days and can be extended once.
You must confirm your type of Visa and eligibility before applying for a renewal. Some visas, such as transit visas, are not extendable.
When and why to renew a visit visa
If you want to stay in the UAE for longer than your initial visit visa allows, then renewing it is required. You must renew your Visa before it expires, whether your travel plans have changed, you are awaiting a new job, or you simply want to extend your vacation.
Overstay Penalties can be incurred if you fail to renew your Visa on time. In addition to administrative charges, the UAE will fine you AED50 per day if you overstay. Overstaying may also result in travel restrictions or difficulty obtaining visas in the future.
Renewal of Visas in-Country
The UAE visa system allows for in-country renewal. This means that you can extend your Visa without having to leave the country. The process can be accessed through the government portals and authorised service centres.
Online Renewal with ICP or GDRFA
In most emirates, it is the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security that handles visa renewals. In Dubai, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs is responsible.
To renew your Visa:
- Visit the official ICP Smart Services Portal or the GDRFA Website.
- Please fill out the application form with your passport number and visa information.
- Upload the required documents, such as your passport copy and Visa.
- The fee varies from 600 AED to 1,000 AED, depending on the Visa and your location.
- Submit your application and wait for approval (normally between 1 and 3 working hours).
Your stay will be extended by 30 days after the expiration date of your original Visa.
Renewing via Authorised Travel Agencies
You can also visit a licensed travel agency or typing centre for your visa renewal if you are not comfortable using the online system. These agencies have experience in immigration procedures and can manage the whole process for you. Although they may charge a service fee for their services, they also provide options such as visa change packages and urgent renewals.
Travel agencies can be particularly helpful if:
- If you have overstayed your Visa and need assistance with re-establishing it, please contact us.
- You wish to change to a new type of Visa.
Need help communicating with immigration authorities?
Renewal of Family Sponsored Visit Visas
The sponsor of your visit visa must initiate the process for renewal on your behalf. The sponsor may apply via the ICP or GDRFA platform using their Emirates ID, residency visa and the visitor’s passport.
Both the sponsor and visitor must take steps to ensure that:
- The original Visa is still valid.
- No fines or violations are pending.
- All supporting documentation is valid and clear.
- This is a common method for visiting parents, spouses and children in the UAE.
Visa Change without Exit: Alternatives to Renewal
You can change your Visa without leaving the country if your Visa cannot be renewed or you have already reached your maximum extension limit. This involves applying for a visa within the UAE, without having to leave the country. This is usually done by agents who can cancel your current Visa and replace it with a brand new one.
This option is more expensive, but it’s a great choice if you need to wait for a visa for residency or a job offer.
Renewal of Visa-on-Arrival for Nationals
Some passport holders, such as those from the US, UK and Schengen countries or GCC nations, are eligible for a Visa on Arrival. This Visa is usually valid for 30 days. The visas are renewable once for a stay of up to 60 days.
Visitors who are eligible to renew their membership must:
- You can apply through the immigration authority of the emirate you entered.
- Please submit their passport details and entry details.
- Renewal fees are payable.
- Receive approval within 1-2 business days.
Visitors must leave the UAE after the second 30-day period and obtain a new visa to return.
Avoiding fines and legal trouble
Overstaying your visit visa can result in fines of AED 50 per day and administrative restrictions. You should:
- You can pay any fines online or at the immigration office.
- You can either renew your Visa or leave the country.
- If there are any complications, seek legal advice.
- Overstaying your Visa can affect future travel plans. Always monitor the expiration date of your Visa and take action early.
Final Thoughts
The UAE’s flexible immigration policies and digital infrastructure make it easy to renew your visit visa. You can renew your Visa online, via a licensed agent or through family sponsorship. The key is to be proactive, to understand the options and to follow the legal procedures. You can easily extend your stay without any legal complications or stress.
If you are visiting family, looking for work, or simply enjoying the beauty of the Emirates and its innovations, renewing your Visa in a timely manner will ensure that your trip runs smoothly. The UAE offers a variety of options, including accessible platforms and responsive authorities.
